Pivot bin bucket with slot for receiving pivot axle

ABSTRACT

A bucket for use with an aircraft storage bin that includes a bottom and first and second opposing side walls extending upwardly from the bottom. The first and second side walls each include a top edge. The first side wall includes a first slot that is open to the top edge of the first side wall and is configured to receive a first pivot axle therein, and the second side wall includes a second slot that is open to the top edge of the second side wall and is configured to receive a second pivot axle therein.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/796,829, filed Jul. 10, 2015, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/022,801, filed Jul. 10, 2014, theentireties of which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to overhead storage binassemblies, and more particularly to an overhead storage bin assemblythat includes a pivot bin having a bucket that pivots outboard.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Commercial aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 are typicallyconstructed from modular components, the size, weight and constructionof which are dictated by many considerations, including fuselagedimensions, aesthetic and safety considerations. Many of theserequirements are imposed by law or regulation. Aircraft components, suchas overhead stowage compartments, seats, lavatories, galleys, lightingsystems, etc. are all required to function within strictly confinedspaces.

Manufacturers of aircraft are constantly refining interior aircraftdesigns to achieve more comfort and utility for passengers and crewwithin carrier-imposed restraints on cost, weight, maintenancedown-time, and safety. Commercial passenger aircraft generally includeoverhead luggage storage bins mounted from the ceiling, walls or otherstructural portion of the aircraft over the passenger seats. These binsare designed to accommodate the size, shape, and weight of passengercarry-on luggage.

Other overhead storage bin assemblies are well known in the art. Forexample, see U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0253837 published Oct. 20,2011, U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,642 issued on Jan. 20, 1987 and U.S. Pat. No.5,567,028 issued on Oct. 22, 1996, the entireties of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of two pivot bin assemblies inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention showinga first pivot bin assembly in an open position and a second pivot binassembly in a closed position;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft cabin with aseries of pivot bin assemblies installed therein;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1 withluggage therein;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 1 withone of the buckets exploded therefrom;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view taken along the same line as FIG. 6,but showing an alternative embodiment for securing the bucket to theupper housing;

FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pivot binassemblies of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7C-7C of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of one of the pivot bin assemblies ofFIG. 1 and showing how a standard piece of luggage fits therein;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of one of the pivot bin assemblies ofFIG. 1 with the PSU channel omitted;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a pivot bin assembly with adifferent valence;

FIG. 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing a rotary damper pivotmechanism providing the pivot point between the side panel and thebucket;

FIG. 12 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing a pivot axle as thepivot mechanism providing the pivot point between the side panel and thebucket;

FIG. 13 is an elevational view showing the first latch assembly in thelatched position;

FIG. 14 is an elevational view showing the first latch assembly in theunlatched position;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the first latch assembly in thelatched position;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a portion of an aircraft cabin showinga plurality of pivot bin assemblies and PSU pods installed therein andshowing an empty PSU channel;

FIG. 17A is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining upwardly;

FIG. 17B is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining outwardly;

FIG. 17C is a perspective view of the interior of an aircraft showing aseries of PSU pod assemblies installed therein with cabin lightingshining downwardly;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a PSU pod assembly and showing thepassenger components and system components;

FIG. 19A is a side schematic view of a portion of a prior art aircraftshowing a series of seats with the passenger components and systemcomponents located thereabove in the PSU channel;

FIG. 19B is an end schematic view of a portion of a prior art aircraftshowing a series of seats with the passenger components and systemcomponents located thereabove in the PSU channel;

FIG. 20A is an end schematic view of a portion of an aircraft showing aseries of seats with the passenger components and system componentslocated thereabove;

FIG. 20B is a side schematic view of a portion of an aircraft showing aseries of seats with the passenger components and system componentslocated thereabove;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of two pivot bin assemblies in accordancewith another preferred embodiment of the present invention showing afirst pivot bin assembly in an open position and a second pivot binassembly in a closed position;

FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket in the closed position;

FIG. 23A is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23A-23A of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23B-23B of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 23C-23C of FIG. 22;

FIG. 23D is a cross-sectional view taken along the same line as 23C-23Cof FIG. 22 and showing an embodiment that includes a rotary damper andcoil spring;

FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket shown in solid lines in the intermediate open positionand the bucket shown in dashed lines in the open position;

FIG. 25A is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket in cross-section and in the open position and the innerand outer plates removed;

FIG. 25B is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket in cross-section and in the closed position and theinner and outer plates removed;

FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket shown in solid lines in the open position and the bucketshown in dashed lines in the intermediate open position;

FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket in the open position;

FIG. 28 is a side elevational schematic view of a connecting unit inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 29 is a side elevational schematic view of a connecting unit inaccordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 30 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 21with the bucket in the open position and the inner and outer platesremoved to show a connecting unit with powered lift assist;

FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of a pivot bin assembly with thebucket in the closed position in accordance with another preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 31with the bucket in the open position;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of two pivot bin assemblies of FIG. 31showing the first pivot bin assembly in an open position and the secondpivot bin assembly in a closed position;

FIG. 34 is an exploded perspective view of the pivot bin assembly ofFIG. 31;

FIG. 35 is a side elevational view of a pivot bin assembly in the closedposition in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 36 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 35in the open position;

FIG. 37 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 35in the closed position with the outer clevis plate removed;

FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of the pivot bin assembly of FIG. 35in the open position with the outer clevis plate removed;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of a dual pivot bin assembly of FIG. 35;

FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view of the dual pivot bin assembly;

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view through the clevis assembly inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, and

FIG. 42 is an elevational view of the interior of an aircraft with thepivot bin assemblies of FIG. 35 on both sides and showing the buckets inthe open and closed positions.

Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of thedrawings.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there isprovided an aircraft storage bin that includes an upper housing, and abucket pivotally connected to the upper housing that cooperates with theupper housing to define a bin interior. The bucket includes a bottom, afront edge and first and second opposing side walls extending upwardlyfrom the bottom and pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upperhousing between an open position and a closed position. When the storagebin is installed in an aircraft, a first horizontal distance is definedbetween a first vertical line that extends through the pivot axis andthe front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the closed position,and a second horizontal distance is defined between the first verticalline and the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the openposition. The first horizontal distance is greater than the secondhorizontal distance. In a preferred embodiment the front edge of thebucket defines a vertical opening distance between the open position andthe closed position and the pivot axis is positioned vertically above acenter point of the vertical opening distance. Preferably, the storagebin includes a first pivot mechanism operatively associated with thefirst side wall of the bucket and a second pivot mechanism operativelyassociated with the second side wall of the bucket. The first side wallof the bucket defines a first arcuate slot therein and the second sidewall of the bucket defines a second arcuate slot therein and the firstarcuate slot receives the first pivot mechanism and the second arcuateslot receives the second pivot mechanism. Preferably, the first andsecond arcuate slots are open to a top edge of the first and second sidewalls of the bucket.

In a preferred embodiment, the bucket includes a rear portion that has abulge portion extending outwardly therefrom and the upper housingincludes an indented portion adjacent the bulge portion. Preferably, thebulge portion has an outer surface having a first curvature and theindented portion has an inner surface having a second curvature, and thefirst and second curvatures are approximately the same. In a preferredembodiment, the first curvature defines a first circle having the pivotaxis as a center point and the second curvatures defines a second circlehaving the pivot axis as a center point. Preferably, the bulge portionand indented portion extend horizontally.

In a preferred embodiment, the storage bin further compres an extensionportion extending downwardly and inwardly from the upper housing. Theextension portion and the rear portion of the bucket define an openingspace that the bucket moves into when it is moved to the open position.

In a preferred embodiment, the aircraft storage bin includes a firstpivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side wall of thebucket and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated with thesecond side wall of the bucket. The upper housing includes first andsecond side panels that each include a bottom edge and the first andsecond side walls of the bucket each include a top edge. In the closedposition, at least a portion of the top edge of the first side wall ofthe bucket abuts the bottom edge of the first side panel, and at least aportion of the top edge of the second side wall of the bucket abuts thebottom edge of the second side panel. Preferably, the aircraft storagebin further comprises a first clevis assembly that includes at least oneof a first inner plate and a first outer plate, and a second clevisassembly that includes at least one of a second inner plate and a secondouter plate. The first clevis assembly is secured to and extendsdownwardly from the first side panel and the second clevis assembly issecured to and extends downwardly from the second side panel. The firstpivot mechanism is operatively associated with the first clevis assemblyand the second pivot mechanism is operatively associated with the secondclevis assembly.

In a preferred embodiment, the aircraft storage bin includes first andsecond seat indicia positioned in the bin interior on an inside surfaceof the upper housing or an inside surface of the bucket. The first seatindicium indicates a first seat number that is associated with a firstseat in an adjacent row when the storage bin is positioned in anaircraft, and wherein the second seat indicium indicates a second seatnumber that is associated with a second seat in an adjacent row when thestorage bin is positioned in an aircraft.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a dual pivot bin assembly that includes first and secondaircraft storage bins positioned adjacent one another that include acommon upper housing. A center side panel having first and secondopposite sides is positioned between the first and second aircraftstorage bins. The first clevis assembly of the first aircraft storagebin is secured to the first side of the center side panel and the secondclevis assembly of the second aircraft storage bin is secured to thesecond side of the center side panel.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided an aircraft storage bin that includes an upper housing thatincludes first and second side panels, a bucket that includes a bottomand first and second side walls and that cooperates with the upperhousing to define a bin interior, a first clevis assembly that includesat least one of a first inner plate and a first outer plate and thatextends between the first side panel of the upper housing and the firstside wall of the bucket, a second clevis assembly that includes at leastone of a second inner plate and a second outer plate and that extendsbetween the second side panel of the upper housing and the second sidewall of the bucket, a first pivot mechanism operatively associated withthe bucket and the first clevis assembly, and a second pivot mechanismoperatively associated with the bucket and the second clevis assembly.The bucket pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position. When the storage bin isinstalled in an aircraft, a first horizontal distance is defined betweena first vertical line that extends through the pivot axis and the frontedge of the bucket when the bucket is in the closed position and asecond horizontal distance is defined between the first vertical lineand the front edge of the bucket when the bucket is in the openposition. The first horizontal distance is greater than the secondhorizontal distance.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first andsecond side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing todefine a bin interior, a first pivot mechanism operatively associatedwith the first side panel and the bucket, and a second pivot mechanismoperatively associated with the second side panel and the bucket. Thefirst and second pivot mechanisms are axially aligned along a pivot axissuch that the bucket pivots about the pivot axis with respect to theupper housing between an open position and a closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the bucket includes a bottom and first and secondopposing sides, and, when the pivot bin assembly receives luggage in thebin interior, the luggage is positioned on the bottom of the bucket,which bears the load of the luggage. The first and second side panelsinclude a bottom edge and the first and second sides of the bucketinclude a top edge, and in the closed position, at least a portion ofthe top edge of the first side of the bucket abuts the bottom edge ofthe first side panel, and at least a portion of the top edge of thesecond side of the bucket abuts the bottom edge of the second sidepanel. Preferably, the bottom of the bucket includes a top edge thatabuts a front bottom edge of the strongback when the bucket is in theclosed position. The top edge of the bottom and sides of the bucketforms a generally continuous abutment edge that abuts the front bottomedge of the strongback and at least a portion of the bottom edge of thefirst and second side panels.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes a firstclevis assembly that includes a first inner plate and a first outerplate and a second clevis assembly that includes a second inner plateand a second outer plate. The first clevis assembly is secured to andextends downwardly from the first side panel and the second clevisassembly is secured to and extends downwardly from the second sidepanel. The first pivot mechanism extends through the first side of thebucket and between the first inner and outer plates and the second pivotmechanism extends through the second side of the bucket and between thesecond inner and outer plates.

The pivot bin assembly further includes at least one latch assembly forsecuring the bucket to the upper housing in the closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes first and secondlatch assemblies and the first latch assembly is associated with thefirst side panel and the first side of the bucket, and the second latchassembly is associated with the second side panel and the second side ofthe bucket. Preferably, the first latch assembly includes a first hookportion and a first striker portion and the second latch assemblyincludes a second hook portion and a second striker portion. One of thefirst hook portion and the first striker portion is associated with thefirst side panel and the other of the first hook portion and the firststriker portion is associated with the first side of the bucket and oneof the second hook portion and the second striker portion is associatedwith the second side panel and the other of the second hook portion andthe second striker portion is associated with the second side of thebucket. In a preferred embodiment, the first hook portion extendsdownwardly from the bottom edge of the first side panel and the firststriker portion is positioned in a first recess defined in the top edgeof the first side of the bucket, and the second hook portion extendsdownwardly from the bottom edge of the second side panel and the secondstriker portion is positioned in a second recess defined in the top edgeof the second side of the bucket. In another preferred embodiment, thefirst hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge of the first sideof the bucket and the first striker portion is positioned in a firstrecess defined in the bottom edge of the first side panel, and thesecond hook portion extends upwardly from the top edge of the secondside of the bucket and the second striker portion is positioned in asecond recess defined in the bottom edge of the second side panel. In apreferred embodiment, the first and second latch assemblies are inelectrical communication with an operating member disposed on thebucket.

Preferably, the first and second pivot mechanisms include first andsecond rotary dampers associated therewith. The co-axial rotary dampersdamp the bucket when it pivots to the open position. Preferably, thefirst pivot mechanism also includes a first assist spring associatedtherewith and the second pivot mechanism includes a second assist springassociated therewith. The first and second assist springs are preloadedwhen the bucket is pivoted to the open position. In a preferredembodiment, the first assist spring is a coil spring that is co-axialwith the first pivot mechanism.

In a preferred embodiment, the upper housing includes a passengerservice unit (“PSU”) channel integral therewith that is positionedadjacent to the bucket. Preferably, the PSU channel includes at least afirst PSU pod extending downwardly therefrom. The upper housing includesfirst and second rails, and the PSU pod extends downwardly from a panelthat includes first and second connectors that are secured to the firstand second rails, respectively. Preferably, the PSU channel includessystems components disposed therein, and the PSU pod includes passengercomponents disposed therein. In a preferred embodiment, the upperhousing includes an ECS channel integral therewith that is separate fromthe PSU channel.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes a firstconnecting unit having a first end pivotally connected to the first sideof the bucket and a second end pivotally connected to the first sidepanel and a second connecting unit having a first end pivotallyconnected to the second side of the bucket and a second end pivotallyconnected to the second side panel. The first and second connectingunits provide one or both of damping when the bucket pivots to the openposition and/or assistance when the bucket pivots to the closedposition. Preferably, the first side panel defines a cut out in whichthe first connecting unit is positioned and the second side paneldefines a cut out in which the second connecting unit is positioned. Inan embodiment that includes the first and second clevis assemblies, thefirst connecting unit is positioned between the first inner plate andthe first outer plate and the second connecting unit is positionedbetween the second inner plate and the second outer plate.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly can fit therein fourpieces of standard luggage. Each piece of standard luggage includes atop, a bottom, a front, a back and two sides and the four pieces ofstandard luggage are received in the bin interior and positioned suchthat one of the two sides of each piece of standard luggage is restingon the bucket bottom when the bucket is in the closed position. In apreferred embodiment, the bucket is made of a single piece that iscreated or formed on a mold in a single operation. Preferably, thebucket defines a lower portion of the bin interior and the upper housingdefines an upper portion of the bin interior. In a preferred embodiment,the bottom of the bucket includes a closing channel defined in an outersurface thereof, and the closing channel includes a closing surface.Preferably, the bottom of the bucket includes a luggage indentationdefined in an inner surface thereof.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes a strongback and first andsecond side panels, a bucket that cooperates with the upper housing todefine a bin interior and is pivotally connected to the upper housingsuch that it pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position. The bucket includes abottom and first and second sides. The pivot bin assembly also includesfirst and second latch assemblies. The first latch assembly isassociated with the first side panel and the first side of the bucket,and the second latch assembly is associated with the second side paneland the second side of the bucket.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that includes an upper housing thatincludes a strongback and first and second side panels and a bucket thatincludes a bottom and first and second sides and that cooperates withthe upper housing to define a bin interior. The bucket is operablyassociated with the upper housing and is movable with respect to theupper housing between a first position where the bucket is closed, asecond position where the bucket is partially open and a third positionwhere the bucket is fully open. The pivot bin assembly also includes atleast one latch assembly for latching the bucket to the upper housing inthe closed position. The bucket is damped when it moves from the firstposition to the second position, and at least a first assist spring ispreloaded when the bucket moves from the second position to the thirdposition. In a preferred embodiment, when the bucket is unlatched fromthe upper housing, the bucket moves from the first position to thesecond position by gravity (as used herein “gravity” means the earth'sgravity). The first assist spring maintains the bucket in the secondposition when the bucket is empty, and when a force greater than gravityis placed on the bucket, the bucket moves from the second position tothe third position. When the bucket is not empty the first assist springreduces the force required by a user to move the bucket from the thirdposition to the second position than if the first assist spring was notpresent.

In a preferred embodiment, the bucket is pivotally connected to theupper housing and pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upperhousing between the first, second and third positions, and the pivotalconnection between the bucket and the upper housing includes first andsecond pivot axles. Preferably, the first assist spring is a coil springthat is co-axial with one of the first or second pivot axles and atleast one of the first and second pivot axles includes a rotary damperco-axial therewith that damps the bucket when the bucket moves from thefirst to the second position.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes a firstconnecting unit having a first end pivotally connected to the first sideof the bucket and a second end pivotally connected to the first sidepanel and a second connecting unit having a first end pivotallyconnected to the second side of the bucket and a second end pivotallyconnected to the second side panel. Preferably, the first assist springis associated with the first connecting unit and at least one of thefirst and second connecting units damp the bucket when it moves from thefirst position to the second position.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, there is provided a pivot bin assembly that includes an upperhousing that includes a strongback and first and second side panels, afirst clevis assembly that includes at least one of a first inner plateand a first outer plate and that is secured to and extends downwardlyfrom the first side panel, a second clevis assembly that includes atleast one of a second inner plate and a second outer plate and that issecured to and extends downwardly from the second side panel, a bucketthat includes a bottom and first and second sides and cooperates withthe upper housing to define a bin interior, a first pivot axleoperatively associated with the bucket and the first clevis assembly,and a second pivot axle operatively associated with the bucket and thesecond clevis assembly. The first and second pivot axles are axiallyaligned along a pivot axis, and the bucket pivots about the pivot axiswith respect to the upper housing between an open position and a closedposition. In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes afirst connecting unit having a first end pivotally connected to thefirst side of the bucket and a second end pivotally connected to thefirst side panel, and a second connecting unit having a first endpivotally connected to the second side of the bucket and a second endpivotally connected to the second side panel. The first and secondconnecting units provide one or both of damping when the bucket pivotsto the open position and assistance when the bucket pivots to the closedposition. Preferably, the first clevis assembly includes both the firstinner plate and the first outer plate and the first pivot axle extendsbetween the first inner plate and the first outer plate. Preferably, thesecond clevis assembly includes both the second inner plate and thesecond outer plate and the second pivot axle extends between the secondinner plate and the second outer plate. Preferably, the first connectingunit is positioned between the first inner plate and the first outerplate and the second connecting unit is positioned between the secondinner plate and the second outer plate. In a preferred embodiment, atleast one of the first or second pivot axles includes an assist springassociated therewith, and the assist spring is preloaded when the bucketis pivoted to the open position. In this embodiment, in use, the emptybucket rests in a partially open position. When a user pulls down on thebucket and overcomes the spring force, the spring is preloaded. If theuser lets go without placing any luggage in the bucket, it will springback to the partially open position. If the user places enoughluggage/weight in the bucket to overcome the spring force, the bucketwill remain in the fully open position.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a dual pivot bin assembly that includes first and second pivotbin assemblies as described above positioned adjacent one another, butthat include a common strongback.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided an aircraft that comprises a cabin having a side wall, and thathas at least first and second of the pivot bin assemblies describedabove that are connected to the side wall.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there isprovided a pivot bin assembly that is configured to receive luggage andbe positioned in the interior of an aircraft. The pivot bin assemblyincludes an upper housing that includes first and second side panels anda strongback that includes an integral PSU channel formed therewith, abucket that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bin interior,a first pivot mechanism operatively associated with the first side paneland the bucket, and a second pivot mechanism operatively associated withthe second side panel and the bucket. The bucket pivots about the pivotaxis with respect to the upper housing between an open position and aclosed position. In a preferred embodiment, the strongback includesfirst and second rails that, when the pivot bin assembly is positionedin an aircraft, extend generally parallel to a longitudinally extendingaxis of the aircraft, and the pivot bin assembly includes at least onepanel that is connected to the first and second rails and partiallydefines the PSU channel. Preferably, the at least one panel includes aPSU pod extending downwardly therefrom that includes reading lightsdisposed therein and has cabin lighting associated therewith.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes a system thatprovides a means for an airline customer or flight attendant to close anopened bucket with minimal force, and also provide the means for a fullyloaded closed bin bucket to open in a controlled manner.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly includes at least onerotary damping mechanism. For example, the rotary damping mechanism canbe that taught in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2013/0207529 (the “'529publication”), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference. Inanother embodiment, the rotary damping mechanism can be the rotarydamper taught in U.S. Patent Pub. No. 2013/0209221 (the “'221publication”), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference.Preferably, the rotary damping mechanism also includes spring assistanceover at least one direction of the rotational travel of the device(e.g., closing of the bucket). The spring assistance can be limited to aportion of the entire range of travel of the pivoting bucket or over theentire range of travel. It will be appreciated by those of ordinaryskill in the art that this eases the force required by a passenger toclose the bucket.

In a preferred embodiment, the lifting force applied through part of thetravel of the bucket rotation is achieved through the inclusion of aspring feature associated with the rotary damping mechanism and/or thepivot mechanism. The spring feature is oriented such that compressionoccurs during all or part of the range of travel of the bucket. Whilethe bucket is open, the spring is preloaded to provide the load assist.This can be advantageous particularly at the beginning of the range ofmotion of the bucket as hand loads for a passenger closing the bucketare typically highest at this point.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described in orderto avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodimentin the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are references tothe same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of theembodiments.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment”means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic describedin connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodimentof the-disclosure. The appearances of the phrase “in one embodiment” invarious places in the specification are not necessarily all referring tothe same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodimentsmutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, various features aredescribed which may be exhibited by some embodiments and not by others.Similarly, various requirements are described which may be requirementsfor some embodiments but not other embodiments.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted.

It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than oneway. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for anyone or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance is tobe placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein.Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or moresynonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examplesanywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussedherein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit thescope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term.Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given inthis specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,”“bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,”“inboard,” “outboard” and “below” used herein are merely for ease ofdescription and refer to the orientation of the components as shown inthe figures. It should be understood that any orientation of thecomponents described herein is within the scope of the presentinvention.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes ofillustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting thesame, FIGS. 1-16 show a pivot bin assembly 10. In particular, theinvention can be used on commercial passenger aircraft. However, this isnot a limitation on the present invention and the pivot bin assembly canbe used elsewhere.

The present invention pivot bin assembly 10 employs a “clamshelldesign.” In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 allows asmuch of the entire volume inside the bin as possible to be used,increasing volume and baggage capacity when compared to the prior art.The design and structure also provides a way to integrate systems suchas environmental control system (“ECS”) ducting and electrical.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, within the cabin ofan aircraft, overhead stowage bins are typically secured to attachmentpoints, such as hard points and overhead and side attachments.Accordingly, a description of the attachment of the pivot bin assemblywill be omitted.

FIGS. 1-16 show a dual pivot bin assembly that is essentially two pivotbin assemblies 10 with a common strongback 12 and that can be installedtogether in the cabin of an aircraft. However, it will be understood bythose of ordinary skill in the art, that a single and separate pivot binassembly 10 with a single strongback 12 is within the scope of thepresent invention and is described and claimed herein. In anotherembodiment, more than two or multiple pivot bin assemblies 10 caninclude a common strongback 12. The figures show pivot bin assemblies 10that are positioned outboard on the aircraft. However, it will beappreciated, that the pivot bin assembly 10 can be used inboard on awide body aircraft. For example, two sets of back to back outboardfacing pivot bin assemblies 10 can include a common strongback 12.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes thestrongback 12, a tray or bucket 14 with a first and a second pivotmechanism or pivot axle 16 a and 16 b on each side, and first and secondside panels 18 a and 18 b. With respect to each pivot bin assembly 10,the strongback 12 and first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b arereferred to herein together as the upper housing 26. Generally, thepivot bin assembly 10 includes the upper housing 26, which includes thestrongback 12 and the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b, andthe bucket 14. The bucket 14 and upper housing 26 cooperate to define abin interior 36. In a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 defines thelower portion of the bin interior 36 and the upper housing defines theupper portion of the bin interior 36. It will be appreciated thatbecause the pivot bin assembly includes two sides that each have a pivotmechanism and associated components. Throughout the description, many ofthe components are denoted as a “first” component with an “a” and as a“second” component with a “b”. However, because many of the componentsare structurally the same, in some portions of the specification anddrawings, the “a” and “b” are omitted. For example, the first and secondpivot mechanisms/axles are denoted as “16 a” and “16 b”. In someportions of the specification and drawings, the pivot mechanism/axle maybe denoted generally as “16”.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the strongback 12 and first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b are separate components. However, inanother embodiment, the strongback 12 and first and second side panels18 a and 18 b (the upper housing 26) can be a unitary component. In apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes a single piecebucket 14 that includes a bottom 28 and first and second opposing sides24 a and 24 b. In another embodiment, the bucket 14 can include multiplepieces, e.g., a three piece design that includes the bottom 28 and firstand second opposing sides 24 a and 24 b as separate components. It willbe appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the bucket 14and upper housing 26 provide a “clamshell design,” where at least aportion of the bottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a and thebottom edge 19 b of the second side panel 18 b and the front bottom edge12 a of the strongback 12 meet edge to edge with or abut the top edge orfront lip 14 a of the bucket 14. In a preferred embodiment, in theclosed position, other than the rear top edge 28 b of the bottom 28 ofthe bucket 14 and the area adjacent thereto and the strongback 12 (seeFIG. 8), there is little to no overlap between the bucket 14 and theupper housing 26. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, other than thelocalized overlap between the first and second ears 20 a and 20 b andthe first and second indented portions 22 a and 22 b, in the closedposition, there is no overlap between the first and second side panels18 a and 18 b and the first and second sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket14. In other words, in a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 does notenter the upper portion of the bin interior 36, which is defined by theupper housing 26, when the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position.It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that not only doesthis increase stowage volume and reduce weight by eliminating redundantpaneling, but also significantly decreases the number of parts neededfor the entire pivot bin assembly 10, compared to the prior art. Asshown in the figures, the strongback 12 can include an integral valence34 for lighting, ducting and/or other system components that can begenerally hidden from passenger view. In a preferred embodiment, thevalence 34 is formed as a unitary portion of the strongback 12. However,this is not a limitation on the present invention and the valence 34 canbe omitted or be a separate component.

When the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position, the first andsecond sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 are not received in theupper portion of the bin interior 36. In other words, in the portion ofthe first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b that do not include thefirst and second ears 20 a and 20 b and first and second indentedportions 22 a and 22 b, the first and second top edges 25 a and 25 b donot pass or overlap with the first and second bottom edges 19 a and 19 bwhen the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position. Preferably, thefirst and second top edges 25 a and 25 b and first and second bottomedges 19 a and 19 b abut one another. However, an embodiment is possiblewhere the first and second top edges 25 a and 25 b and first and secondbottom edges 19 a and 19 b are horizontally separated from one another,but, in a vertical direction, the first and second top edges 25 a and 25b do not pass or overlap with the first and second bottom edges 19 a and19 b when the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position.

In a preferred embodiment, the strongback 12, bucket 14 and first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b are made out of crush-core panel.However, this is not a limitation on the present invention and othermaterials can be used. In an exemplary embodiment, the single piecebucket 14 is made using crush core match metal molding. This creates acontinuous composite structure with a C-frame cross section that can bemade from a single mold. The continuous piece acts as a structuralI-beam. However, this structure is not a limitation on the presentinvention.

As shown in FIGS. 1-12, generally, first and second side panels 18 a and18 b include first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b that areoperatively associated with the bucket 14, and allow the bucket 14 topivot with respect to the upper housing 26 between an open position anda closed position. Any type of pivot mechanism that allows the bucket 14to pivot with respect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope of thepresent invention. For example, the first and second pivot mechanisms 16a and 16 b can be pivot axles, as shown in FIG. 12. It will beappreciated that the first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b oraxles pivot or rotate about a pivot axis. In a preferred embodiment, thefirst and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b are axially aligned suchthat the pivot axles rotate about the same axis A1, as shown in FIGS. 7Cand 8.

In a preferred embodiment, the first side panel 18 a includes a firstear 20 a and the second side panel 18 b includes a second ear 20 bextending downwardly therefrom. The first and second ears 20 a and 20 bmate with or are received in first and second indented portions 22 a and22 b that are formed in the first and second sides 24 a and 24 b of thebucket 14. As shown in the figures, preferably, the first and secondindented portions 22 a and 22 b extend inwardly into the interior of thebucket 14. However, in another embodiment, the indented portions canextend outwardly. Furthermore, in another embodiment, the ears canextend upwardly from the bucket and the indented portions can be definedinwardly or outwardly on the side panels of the upper housing.

In a preferred embodiment, the first side panel 18 a, first ear 20 a andthe first side 24 a of the bucket 14 (other than the first indentedportion 22 a) all are positioned in a generally common plane P1 (seeFIG. 6). Likewise, the second side panel 18 b, second ear 20 b and thesecond side 24 b of the bucket 14 (other than the second indentedportion 22 b) all are positioned in a generally common plane. In anotherembodiment, the first and second ears 20 a and 20 b can be part of thebucket 14 and the first and second indented portions 22 a and 22 b canbe defined in the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b.

As discussed above, and as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, in a preferredembodiment, in the closed position, the bottom edges of the first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b abut the top edges 25 a and 25 b of thefirst and second sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 (FIG. 6) and thefront bottom edge 12 a of the strongback 12 abuts the front top edge 28a of the bottom 28 of the bucket 14 (FIGS. 8 and 14). It will beappreciated that the front bottom edge 12 a of the strongback caninclude the valence 34. In other words, as used herein, front bottomedge 12 a is the open edge that is abutted by the bucket 14, whether itactually is the strongback, valence or a panel extending from thestrongback. As is also shown in FIGS. 8 and 14, the bottom 28 of theybucket 14 includes a rear top edge 28 b that is positioned adjacent tobut does not abut a rear bottom edge 12 b of the strongback 12. Thisallows a portion of the bottom 28 of the bucket to overlap with thestrongback 12 when the bucket 14 pivots to the open position. It will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that in a commercial embodiment,the bucket and/or upper housing may include edge trim, seals or the likethat cover the top edges of the bucket or the bottom edges of the upperhousing. However, this is not a limitation on the present invention andany such components are considered part of the upper housing or bucketfor purposes of the claims appended hereto. For example see the trim 13shown in FIGS. 23A and 23B. In a preferred embodiment, the pivot binassembly 10 includes at least one stop member 15 (and preferably aplurality of stop members) positioned within the bin interior 36 andthat maintain the bucket 14 in the open position and prevents it frompivoting too far. Any type of stop member 15 is within the scope of thepresent invention. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the stop member 15can abut the angled top edge 14 b of the back of the bucket 14 and/orthe rear top edge 28 b of the bottom 28 of the bucket 14. The stopmember 15 can be a separate component or be built in to the upperhousing 26 (e.g., a ledge).

In a preferred embodiment, the first pivot mechanism 16 a extendsbetween the first ear 20 a and the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 andthe second pivot mechanism 16 b extends between the second ear 20 b andsecond first side 24 b of the bucket 14. As discussed above, the firstand second pivot mechanisms can be pivot axles on which the bucket 14can rotate. As shown in FIGS. 5-6 and 7B-7C, a portion of the firstpivot mechanism 16 a can be positioned in corresponding openings 32 aand 33 a in the first ear 20 a and first side 24 a, respectively, and aportion of the second pivot mechanism 16 b can be positioned incorresponding openings 32 b and 33 b in the second ear 20 b and secondside 24 b, respectively. In another embodiment, a pivot axle can extendfrom the bucket and into an opening in the ear or vice versa. Any pairof pivot mechanisms that are axially aligned and that allow the bucket14 to pivot with respect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope ofthe present invention.

As shown in FIG. 11, in a preferred embodiment, the first and secondpivot mechanisms comprise first and second rotary dampers 17 a and 17 b.With respect to the first rotary damper 17 a, one of the housing 19 orthe axle 21 is secured within opening 32 a and the other is securedwithin opening 33 a. With respect to the second rotary damper 17 b, oneof the housing 19 or the axle 21 is secured within opening 32 b and theother is secured within opening 33 b. It will be appreciated that FIG.11 only shows the first rotary damper 17 a, but that second rotarydamper 17 b is a mirror image thereof. The first and second rotarydampers 17 a and 17 b can include covers 23 to secure them in place.

It will be understood that the first and second rotary dampers 17 a and17 b provide the ability to damp or control the descent or pivoting ofthe bucket when it pivots to the open position. In a preferredembodiment, the first and second rotary dampers are either of the rotarydampers taught in the '529 publication or the '221 publication. Inanother embodiment, each of the first and second side panels 18 a and 18b can include a cover 23 positioned on the outside or the inside of thebin interior 36 and that secures the first and second side panels 18 aand 18 b to the bucket 14 and that covers and houses the first andsecond pivot mechanism 16 a and 16 b. It will be appreciated that anytype of power assist (for raising or lowering the bucket) or damper iswithin the scope of the present invention. For example, the presentinvention can utilize a prior art damper, such as a linear damper thatincludes a cylinder with a piston and damping fluid therein or a springfor assist (as described below).

As shown in FIGS. 1-5 and, more specifically in FIGS. 13-15, in apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 10 includes first andsecond latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b operatively associated with thefirst and second side panels 18 a and 18 b and the first and secondsides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14. Preferably, the first latchassembly 40 a includes a first hook portion 42 a and a first strikerportion 44 a and the second latch assembly 40 b includes a second hookportion 42 b and a second striker portion 44 b. In a preferredembodiment, the first hook portion 42 a extends downwardly from thebottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a and the first strikerportion 44 a is positioned in a first recess 41 a defined in the topedge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the second hookportion 42 b extends downwardly from the bottom edge 19 b of the secondside panel 18 b and the second striker portion 44 b is positioned in asecond recess 41 b defined in the top edge 25 b of the second side 24 bof the bucket 14.

In another embodiment, the first hook portion 42 a extends upwardly fromthe top edge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the firststriker portion 44 a is positioned in a first recess defined in thebottom edge of the first side panel 18 a, and the second hook portion 42b extends upwardly from the top edge 25 b of the second side 24 b of thebucket 14 and the second striker portion 44 b is positioned in a secondrecess defined in the bottom edge of the second side panel 18 b.

In another preferred embodiment, the first striker portion 44 a extendsdownwardly from the bottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a andthe first hook portion 42 a is positioned in a first recess 41 a definedin the top edge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and thesecond striker portion 44 b extends downwardly from the bottom edge 19 bof the second side panel 18 b and the second hook portion 42 b ispositioned in a second recess 41 b defined in the top edge 25 b of thesecond side 24 b of the bucket 14.

In another embodiment, the first striker portion 44 a extends upwardlyfrom the top edge 25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and thefirst hook portion 42 a is positioned in a first recess defined in thebottom edge of the first side panel 18 a, and the second striker portion44 b extends upwardly from the top edge 25 b of the second side 24 b ofthe bucket 14 and the second hook portion 42 b is positioned in a secondrecess defined in the bottom edge of the second side panel 18 b. Thefirst and second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b can be actuated manuallyor electronically. As shown in FIG. 5, the pivot bin assembly 10preferably includes an operating member or release button 27 disposed onthe bucket 14. In a preferred embodiment, the operating member 27comprises a switch that is in electrical communication (with wires orwirelessly) with the first and second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b.

It will be appreciated that any type of latching mechanism that allowsthe bucket 14 to connect to the upper housing 26 is within the scope ofthe present invention. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that theterms first hook portion and second hook portion refer to the entireassembly secured to the upper housing in the figures. And, the termsfirst striker portion and second striker portion refer to the entireassembly secured to the upper housing in the figures. The hook portioncan be any latching mechanism that includes a hook or latch that mateswith or latches to a striker.

FIGS. 13-15 show an exemplary embodiment of the first latch assembly 40a. It will be understood that the second latch assembly 40 b includesessentially the same components. FIGS. 13 and 15 show the first latchassembly 40 a in the latched position and FIG. 14 shows the first latchassembly 40 a in the unlatched position. Preferably, the first hookportion 42 a is mounted in a recess 29 a in the first side panel 18 aand includes a housing 31 a, a hook 35 a and guide members 37 a thathelp guide the striker 39 a (which can be secured in place by a threadedfastener 51 a) into the desired position. As is known in the art, thehook 35 a can be mounted on a pivot pin and include a spring 43 a forurging it into the desired position. Preferably the first strikerportion 44 a includes a housing 45 a that defines a guide recess 47 adefined therein and that is spanned by the striker 39 a. In use, whenthe bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position, the guide members 37 aare received in the guide recess 47 a, and, as a result of the angle onthe bottom edge of the hook 35 a and the round shape of the striker 39a, the hook 35 a is pivoted out of the way and the striker 39 a isreceived fully between the guide members 37 a. As a result of the spring43 a, the hook 35 a is urged into the position shown in FIG. 13, and thefirst latch assembly 40 a is now in the latched position.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that by the first andsecond hook portions 42 a and 42 b extending downwardly from the firstand second side panels 18 a and 18 b and latching to first and secondstriker portions 44 a and 44 b, which are essentially embedded in thefirst and second sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 allows the topedge 14 a of the bucket 14 (i.e., top edges 25 a and 25 b and front topedge 28 a to abut the bottom edge (bottom edges 19 a and 19 b and frontbottom edge 12 a) of the upper housing 26. In other words, the firstside panel 18 a, the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 and the firstlatch assembly 40 a are all lined up generally vertically and the secondside panel 18 b, the second side 24 b of the bucket 14 and the secondlatch assembly 40 b are all lined up generally vertically.

The first and second latch assemblies 40 a and 40 b shown in the figuresare not a limitation on the present invention and any type of latchassembly or mechanism for securing the bucket 14 to the upper housing 26is within the scope of the present invention. For example, the pivot binassembly can include a center latch that connects the bucket to thestrongback.

As shown in FIGS. 4, 8 and 14, the inventive pivot bin assembly 10 isdesigned to stow standard Travel Pro 22″ bags or luggage 11 wheels firston their edge (this type of bag is referred to herein as “standardluggage”). As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art,storage of a maximum amount of luggage within overhead stowage bins isof utmost importance in passenger aircraft and the standard luggagediscussed herein is used as an industry standard when determining theamount of cargo that will fit into overhead stowage bins. As shown inFIG. 4, a piece of standard luggage 11 includes a top 11 a, a bottom 11b, a front 11 c, a back 11 d and two sides 11 e. Typically, the standardluggage 11 includes wheels on the bottom 11 b thereof. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention, a pivot bin assembly 10 can stow upto four pieces of standard luggage within the bin interior. However,this is not a limitation on the present invention. In anotherembodiment, the present invention can store more or less standardluggage.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot axis A1 or pivot point provided bythe first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b is not along thesame lengthwise axis as the luggage stored within the bin interior, butis instead non-centrally located. Furthermore, the center of gravity ofthe luggage in the bin interior is moved outboard when compared to theprior art and closer to the pivot axis A1, thereby making the bucket 14easier to close. Furthermore, compared to prior art pivot bins, thepivot bin assembly 10 can be moved further outboard from the aisle,thereby providing more passenger space and an open cabin feel. However,none of the statements that include comparisons to the prior art areintended to be a limitation on the present invention.

With reference to FIGS. 19A-19B, as will be appreciated by those ofordinary skill in the art, passenger aircraft typically include what isreferred to as a passenger service unit (“PSU”), which is situatedgenerally above each seat row (although not typically at the same pitchwith respect to each seat row) in the overhead panel above the passengerseats in the cabin of airliners. Amongst other things a PSU containsreading lights, loudspeakers, illuminated signs and automaticallydeployed oxygen masks and also gaspers providing conditioned air.Passenger service units typically include individual PSU panels 117 thatare specialized for each function (e.g., speaker panels, reading lightpanels, spacer panels, etc.) and that are positioned on rails 116 thatrun the length of the interior of the cabin. These individual functionalspecific panels are then configured to meet the aircraft and passengerneeds, typically resulting in the configuration and installation ofthree hundred or more specialized panels. These panels 117 are installedwithin and cover a PSU channel 118 that is filled with both passengerelements 112 (e.g., reading lights, gaspers, flight attendant buttons,etc.) and systems elements 114 (wiring, oxygen tanks/components, cabinlights and associated electronics, ducting, etc.) creating a ceiling 120above the passenger that restricts\bounds the passenger's head room. Asshown in FIG. 19A, there is a fixed distance or height H1 from the floor122 to the “ceiling” 120.

With reference to at least FIGS. 16-20B, in a preferred embodiment, thepivot bin assembly 10 includes an integrated PSU channel 50 and a PSUpod 52 for each passenger row. As discussed above, aircraft PSUstypically include two types of elements: passenger elements 112 (readinglights, gaspers/air vents and flight attendant call buttons) and systemselements 114 (wiring, oxygen tanks 113/components, cabin lights andassociated electronics, ducting, etc.). As shown in FIG. 18, the PSU pod52 provides a way to at least partially separate the passenger elementbundle 112 for each row from the systems elements bundle 114 for eachrow. By separating the passenger elements 112 from the systems elements114 that are typically installed in a PSU, a PSU pod 52 (for thepassenger elements 112) is configured or positioned independent of thesystems elements 114, which are positioned in the PSU channel 50. Asshown in FIGS. 18 and 20A, in a preferred embodiment, the passengerelements bundle 112 is positioned below the systems elements bundle 114.It will be appreciated that in another embodiment of the invention, thePSU pod 52 and PSU pod assembly 58 can be used with overhead binsdifferent than the clamshell design described herein. For example, thePSU pod assembly 58 can be used with other types of pivot bins or anoverhead stowage bin that is fixed but includes a pivotal door. The PSUpod assembly can be used with any overhead stowage bin that includes anenclosure for luggage and a PSU channel formed integrally therewith.

In a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod 52 preferably includes a housing54 that includes first, second, third and fourth sides 53 a, 53 b, 53 cand 53 d, a top 53 e and a bottom 53 f that cooperate to define a podinterior 59, a plurality of reading lights 60 (that are aligned with andeither extend through or shine light through reading light openings 54a), cabin lighting 62, a lens assembly 64 and a vent or gasper 66defined in the housing for gasping conditioned air. It will beappreciated that the housing can be circular, ovular or elliptical inshape. For purposes of this disclosure, these shapes are considered tohave first, second, third and fourth sides. In a preferred embodiment,the PSU pod 52 is part of a PSU pod assembly 58 that includes a panel 56that has connectors 70 a (such as hooks), that mate with rails orconnectors 70 b that are a part of the strongback 12 and extend in adirection that is generally parallel to the axis of the aircraft. In thefigures, “70” is used to designate the connection between 70 a and 70 b.It will be appreciated that any type of connection, such as hooks,rivets, threaded fasteners, magnets, snap fit arrangements or any othermethod of securing the panels 56 and PSU pod 52 to the upper housing 26or strongback 12 is within the scope of the present invention. The PSUpod 52 is connected to and extends or hangs downwardly from the panel56, thereby creating the PSU pod assembly 58. In another embodiment, thepanel can be omitted and the PSU pod itself can be connected to therails 70 b. When installed in an aircraft, wires for electricalconnection (to both the reading lights 60 and the cabin lighting 62) andducting for the gasper(s) 66 extends from the PSU channel 50 through anopening 56 a (or openings) in the panel 56 and down into the housing 54.The PSU pod 52 can include a flight attendant call button 72 thereon.

As discussed above, in a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod assembly 58also includes cabin lighting 62 that is associated with the PSU pod 52.The cabin lighting 62 can be any type of lighting (e.g., LEDs,incandescent, halogen, etc.) and can be positioned within or on housing54. In a preferred embodiment, the PSU pod assembly 58 also includes alens assembly 64 that helps direct light that shines from the cabinlighting 62 as desired. As is best shown in FIG. 17A, the light 62 afrom the cabin lighting 62 shines from the top of the PSU pod 52 andwashes along and down the panels 56, bucket 14 and sidewalls, etc. ofthe aircraft. As a result of this arrangement, in a preferredembodiment, the PSU pods 52 provide passenger specific reading lights 60that shine generally downwardly and outwardly and row specific cabinlighting that shines generally upwardly and outwardly. FIG. 17B showsanother embodiment, where the reading lights, vent and flight attendantcall button are omitted and the PSU pod 52 includes cabin lightingshining out the first, second, third and fourth sides 53 a-53 d. FIG.17C shows another embodiment, where the reading lights, vent and flightattendant call button are omitted and the PSU pod 52 includes cabinlighting shining out the bottom of the housing 54. These embodiments canalso include the reading lights, vent and flight attendant call button.These embodiments all create cabin lighting specifically for each row bypositioning the cabin lighting on or in the PSU pods 52.

With reference to FIGS. 20A-20B, as discussed above, generally, in thepresent invention, a passenger element bundle 112 is included in eachPSU pod 52 and the systems elements 114 are disposed within the PSUchannel 50 or at some other position above the ceiling defined by eitherthe overhead bins or the panels 56 used to hide the systems elements114. It will be understood that the systems elements 114 include bothrow specific elements (e.g., oxygen tanks/masks) and non-row specificelements (air ducts, electrical wiring, etc.). These elements are shownschematically in FIGS. 19A-20B as a box or bundle. However, it will beappreciated by those skilled in the art, that systems elements 114 canbe located at any position along the PSU channel 50. In a preferredembodiment, the systems elements 114 are stacked generally above the PSUpod 52 and the passenger elements 112. In other words, the PSU pod 52 ispositioned below the PSU channel 50 that houses the systems elements114. However, as discussed above, not all systems elements 114 will bepositioned directly above the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod 52. Inother words, the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod 52 or located at afirst level and the systems elements 114 are located at a second levelor height that is higher than the passenger elements 112 or PSU pod 52.

The PSU pod 52 changes the configuration and installation methodology ofthe prior art by using a row specific design and a completed channel 50built in to and defined within the pivot bin assembly 10. Compared tothe prior art, this helps eliminate or reduce unnecessary spacer panels.In a preferred embodiment, each PSU pod 52 has the same pitch oralignment with respect to each row of seats 124. It will be appreciatedthat the positioning of the PSU pod assembly 58 can be adjusted as aresult of the connection 70 between the connectors 70 a and the rails 70b. In other words, the PSU pod assembly 58 can slide fore or aft on therails 70 b. Furthermore, by reducing the number of components in the PSUchannel, the height of the panels can be raised (compared to the priorart), to a height H2, that is greater than the height H1 in a similarprior art aircraft. Furthermore, although the PSU pod 52 extenddownwardly below the panels 56, in a preferred embodiment, it can bepositioned at a height H1 that is the same or similar to the height ofthe prior art ceiling 120/panel 117 height. This allows the PSU pod 52to be positioned such that the height H2 provides more passenger spaceor headroom than the prior art and positions the PSU pod 52 and theelements therein or thereon (e.g., reading lights, vents, cabinlighting, etc.) at a consistent position or pitch for each row ofpassengers. In other words, passenger headroom height between PSU pods52 is increased when compared to the prior art. However, the positioningof the PSU pod 52 is not a limitation on the present invention. Inanother embodiment, they can be positioned lower than the prior artheight H1 and/or they can be positioned such that they have a differentpitch than each row.

In another embodiment, the cabin lighting can be omitted or more or lessreading lights can be included. The switches or buttons for the readinglights 60 can be positioned on the PSU pod 52 or elsewhere within reachof the passenger for which each reading light 60 is intended. In apreferred embodiment, the reading lights 60 are controlled by thepassengers seated in the row for which the PSU pod 52 is designated andthe cabin lighting 62 is controlled by the crew from a location remotefrom the passengers.

With reference to FIG. 8, in a preferred embodiment, the pivot binassembly 10 includes an environmental control system (“ECS”) thatincludes ducting and electrical. In a preferred embodiment, thestrongback 12 serves as the enclosure of the ECS ducting. As discussedabove, at least a portion of the ECS components are positioned in thePSU channel 50. However, the pivot bin assembly 10 can also include atleast one further separate ECS channel 74. Electrical wire harnesses canbe directly attached to the pivot bin assembly 10 instead of theaircraft for an easier and cleaner installation, when compared to theprior art. However, the ECS channel can be omitted and the ducting,electrical, etc. can be connected to the aircraft in another embodiment.

With reference to FIGS. 21-34, another embodiment of a pivot binassembly 140 is shown. Pivot bin assembly 140 is similar to the pivotbin assembly 10 shown in FIGS. 1-16, however, the ears and correspondingindented portions are omitted and are replaced with clevis assemblies142 a and 142 b that pivotally connect the upper housing 26 and thebucket 14. In other words, instead of integral ears extending downwardlyfrom the upper housing, the clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b (togetherwith the pivot axles 16 a and 16 b) provide the pivotal connection ofthe bucket to the upper housing. It will be appreciated that most ofFIGS. 22-34 do not include latch assemblies. However, the latchassemblies described above and shown in connection with pivot binassembly 10 can be used with pivot bin assembly 140. In anotherembodiment, other latching mechanisms can be used.

As shown in FIG. 21, pivot bin assembly 140 generally includesstrongback 12, a tray or bucket 14 (or buckets) with a first and asecond pivot mechanism or pivot axle 16 a and 16 b on each side, andfirst and second side panels 18 a and 18 b and first and second clevisassemblies 142 a and 142 b. With respect to each pivot bin assembly 140,the strongback 12 and first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b arereferred to herein together as the upper housing 26. Generally, thepivot bin assembly 140 includes the upper housing 26, which includes thestrongback 12 and the first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b, andthe bucket 14. The bucket 14 and upper housing 26 cooperate to define abin interior 36. In a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 defines thelower portion of the bin interior 36 and the upper housing defines theupper portion of the bin interior 36. As shown in FIG. 21, in apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 140 includes a plurality ofstop members 15 positioned on the strongback 12 and the bucket 14 thatstop the bucket 14 from opening further than the preferred openingposition (described below). In another embodiment, the stop members 15can be a long strip that spans most or all of the back of the bucket 14(see FIGS. 33-34). In another embodiment, the stop members 15 can belocated elsewhere.

In the embodiment shown in the figures, the strongback 12 and first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b are separate components. However, inanother embodiment, the strongback 12 and first and second side panels18 a and 18 b (the upper housing 26) can be a unitary component. In apreferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 140 includes a single piecebucket 14 that includes a bottom 28 and first and second opposing sides24 a and 24 b. In another embodiment, the bucket 14 can include multiplepieces, e.g., a three piece design that includes the bottom 28 and firstand second opposing sides 24 a and 24 b as separate components. Similarto the embodiments described above, it will be appreciated by those ofordinary skill in the art that the bucket 14 and upper housing 26provide a “clamshell design,” where at least a portion of the bottomedge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a and the bottom edge 19 b of thesecond side panel 18 b meet edge to edge with or abut one another andthe front bottom edge 12 a of the strongback 12 meets edge to edge withor abuts the top edge 14 a of the bucket 14. In a preferred embodiment,in the closed position, other than the rear top edge 28 b of the bottom28 of the bucket 14 and the area adjacent thereto and the strongback 12,there is little to no overlap between the bucket 14 and the upperhousing 26. In other words, in a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14does not enter the upper portion of the bin interior 36, which isdefined by the upper housing 26, when the bucket 14 is pivoted to theclosed position.

When the bucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position, the first andsecond sides 24 a and 24 b of the bucket 14 are not received in theupper portion of the bin interior 36. In other words, the first top edge25 a of the first side 24 a of the bucket 14 does not pass or overlapwith the first bottom edge 19 a of the first side panel 18 a when thebucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position. And, the second top edge 25b of the second side 24 b of the bucket 14 does not pass or overlap withthe second bottom edge 19 b of the second side panel 18 b when thebucket 14 is pivoted to the closed position. Preferably, the first topedge 25 a abuts the first bottom edge 19 a, and the second top edge 25 babuts the second bottom edge 19 b. However, an embodiment is possiblewhere the first and second top edges 25 a and 25 b and first and secondbottom edges 19 a and 19 b or the front bottom edge 12 a of thestrongback 12 and front top edge 28 a of the bucket 14 are horizontallyseparated from one another, but, in a vertical direction, the first andsecond top edges 25 a and 25 b do not pass or overlap with the first andsecond bottom edges 19 a and 19 b and/or the front bottom edge 12 a andfront top edge 28 a do not pass or overlap when the bucket 14 is pivotedto the closed position.

As shown in FIGS. 21-34, first and second side panels 18 a and 18 binclude first and second clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b that housefirst and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b together with othercomponents as described below. Generally, first and second pivotmechanisms 16 a and 16 b are operatively associated with the bucket 14,and allow the bucket 14 to pivot with respect to the upper housing 26between an open position and a closed position. It will be appreciatedthat the first and second pivot mechanisms 16 a and 16 b or axles definea pivot axis. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second pivotmechanisms 16 a and 16 b are axially aligned.

As shown in FIGS. 21-22, in a preferred embodiment, pivot bin 140includes a connecting unit 150 (described more fully below) on each sidethereof, that, together with first and second pivot bin mechanisms 16 aand 16 b are housed within clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b. First andsecond clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b are connected to the first andsecond side panels 18 a and 18 b and extend downwardly to surround aportion of the sides first and second sides 24 a and 24 b of bucket 14.In this embodiment, the pivot axles 16 a and 16 b are essentially theclevis pins and the clevis is comprised of an inner plate 175 and anouter plate 177 that each include an opening 179 therein, through whichthe pivot axle/pin 16 extends.

With reference to FIG. 23C, pivot axle 16 b extends through lower arms176 b of the clevis assembly 142 b, which, together with the clevisassembly and pivot axle on the other side of the bucket 14 provide apivotal connection between the upper housing 26 and the bucket 14. Thefirst and second clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b can be connected tothe upper housing 26 and bucket 14 by fasteners, threaded fasteners,bonding or the like. In another embodiment, the clevis assemblies 142 aand 142 b are integral with the upper housing 26. In another embodiment,the clevis assemblies can be integral with the bucket 14 or can beattached/secured to the bucket and the pivot axles can extend throughthe upper housing. As shown in FIG. 23C, in a preferred embodiment,second clevis assembly 142 b includes threaded fasteners 173 that extendinto a bushing 178 positioned in an opening in the side 18 b. Pivot axle16 b can also extend through a bushing 178 positioned in openings 179 inthe inner and outer plates 175 and 177 and an opening 182 in the side ofthe bucket 14. In another embodiment, bushing 178 can be omitted. Itwill be appreciated that the clevis assemblies 142 a and 142 b (and theinner and outer plates 175 and 177 thereof) can each be a unitarystructure or they can be a plurality of plates that together form theclevis assembly. As shown in FIG. 23C, the clevis assembly can include ahorizontal plate 181 that connects the inner and outer plates 175 and177. In another embodiment, the pivot axle can be unitary with orsecured to the inside surfaces of the inner and outer plates/lower armsor at least one of the inner or outer plates/lower arms. In anotherembodiment, the clevis assemblies can include a single inner or outerplate that extends between and is secured to the upper housing and thebucket.

As shown in FIG. 23D, in an embodiment that includes the rotary damper17 and/or an assist spring 172 (described below), these components arealso housed within the clevis assembly 142 b. FIG. 23D also shows clevisassembly 142 b including connectors that are unitary with the insidesurface of upper arms 180 b of the clevis.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 140 includes a systemthat provides a user with assistance in closing an open bucket 14 with apredetermined minimal amount of force, and may also provide the meansfor a fully loaded closed bucket 14 to open in a controlled manner(damped). This can be accomplished in several ways. FIGS. 24-30 show apreferred embodiment for providing these features. Within the aircraftindustry certain dimensions, weights, forces and other measurements,etc. are required or desired for opening and closing overhead bins andfor the forces necessary for particular sized men and women to close thebins. Such considerations are taken into account in the descriptionherein. However, it will be appreciated that the particular numbers,measurements, dimensions, etc. set forth herein are only exemplary andnot limiting on the present invention.

FIG. 24 shows a side view of pivot bin assembly 140 in the openposition. Two different open positions for the bucket 14 are shown. Thisis referred to herein as a two stage opening bucket or bin. The positionshown in the solid lines is the bucket 14 in the open position when thepivot bin is empty (referred to herein as the “intermediate openposition”). The position shown in dotted lines is the bucket 14 in theopen position when the pivot bin is loaded beyond a predetermined weight(referred to herein as the “open position”). The bucket 14 can openfully to a certain angle or arc, which is shown in FIG. 24 as A1. Whenthe bucket 14 is open to A1, it is in the open position (stop members 15maintain the bucket 14 in the open position). When the bucket 14 is inthe intermediate open position (which is a resting position, not just aposition taken as a “snapshot” while the bin is opening) it has movedthrough an angle or arc labeled A2 in FIG. 24. The angle or arc betweenthe intermediate open position and the open position is shown as A3 inFIG. 24. In an exemplary embodiment, A1 is 42°, A2 is 31° and A3 is 11°.However, these angles are not a limitation on the invention. Forexample, in another exemplary embodiment, A1 can be between 30° and 60°,A2 can be between 20° and 40° and A3 can be between 5° and 20°. Anassist spring or springs can be used to hold the bucket 14 in theintermediate open position, as will be described further below. Inanother embodiment, the two stage opening can be omitted and the bucket14 can open all the way through arc A1 when opened.

In a preferred embodiment, the bin is damped when opened. This preventsthe bucket 14 from slamming open as a result of gravity. Damping can beprovided in several ways, as described below.

In a preferred embodiment, a closing assist force is provided along atleast a portion of the closing arc of the bucket 14 (shown as anexemplary A3 in FIG. 24). As a result, when the bucket 14 is empty, thebucket 14 will be positioned in the intermediate open position. However,when the bucket 14 is loaded with a predetermined weight of luggage orwhen a user pulls down with enough force to overcome the spring force,the bucket 14 will be positioned in the open position. When a userpushes to close the bucket 14, the closing assist force created by thepreloaded spring will help along arc A3, which is the portion of theclosing arc that requires the most force by a user.

As is shown in FIGS. 24-27, in a preferred embodiment, pivot binassembly 140 also provides a closing channel 144 that defines a closingsurface 146 that when contacted or pushed by a user defines a closingpoint lever arm L1. In the prior art, oftentimes, a user places theirhand somewhere in the middle of a pivot bin in an attempt to close it.However, in the present invention, with the closing channel 144 definedin the bucket 14, a user will be inclined to press on the closingsurface 146 to close the bucket 14. The closing surface 146 is locatedon the bucket 14 at an area that is relatively far from the pivot point,therefore providing a longer closing point lever arm L1 (than if a userplaces their hand in the middle of the bucket). This makes it easier forthe user to close the bucket 14 than if they pushed on the bucket 14 ata point closer to the pivot point. When the bucket 14 is in theintermediate open position or (fully) open position, the closing surface146 is also oriented such that the application of the closing force onthe closing surface 146 by a user will generally be in line with theclosing motion of the bucket 14 (see arrow F1 in FIG. 27). Thispositioning and orientation of the closing surface 146 helps ensure thatthe user pushes at an efficient point, which generally is a point farfrom the pivot point and close to perpendicular of the lever arm.

In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, the bucket 14 isalso shaped such that the center of gravity CG of the luggage ispositioned for easier closing of the bucket 14. When compared with theprior art pivot bins in most aircraft, the bucket 14 is shaped toposition the luggage within the bucket so that the center of gravity ofthe luggage is closer to the pivot point. In a preferred embodiment,this is achieved by providing an integrated ramp 148 at the leading edgeof the bucket 14 which ensures the proper position of the luggage (moreoutboard on a single aisle aircraft) during the start of the upwardmotion (where a user experiences the highest hand loads). As shown inFIG. 25A, preferably, the ramp 148 is essentially the inverse of theclosing channel 144.

As shown in FIG. 25A-25B, in a preferred embodiment, a local “crush” ofthe bucket 14 or luggage indentation 149 is defined in the inner surfaceof the bucket to allow the luggage 11 to move or shift further outboardwhen the bucket 14 is closed. This movement can be seen in a comparisonof FIGS. 25A and 25B, which show the distance from the center of gravityCG of the luggage 11 to the pivot point as D1 and D2, where D2 isshorter. The luggage indentation 149 is localized around the outboardlower corner of the luggage 11.

As discussed above, the damping and closing assist can be provided in anumber of different ways. As shown in FIGS. 25A-25B, in a preferredembodiment of the present invention, the pivot bin assembly 140 includesa connector unit 150 that is connected at one end to the bucket 14 andat the other end to the upper housing 26 (preferably, one of the sidewalls 18). As shown in FIG. 25B, in a preferred embodiment, theconnector unit 150 is positioned in a cut out 151 in the side 18 b ofthe upper housing 26. The connector unit 150 generally can be used foreither one or both of damping the opening of the bucket 14 or assistingwith the closing of the bucket 14.

FIGS. 28-29 show schematic views of connector units 150 a and 150 b.Both connector units 150 a and 150 b include pivotal connections 152(e.g. ball joints) at the opposite ends thereof that connect the unit tobrackets 154 or the like that is located on the bucket 14 and the sidewall 18 respectively. In use, the connecting units 150 pivot aboutpivotal connections 152 as necessary and lengthen or contract asnecessary during opening or closing of the bucket 14. Connecting unit150 a includes two different springs 156 and 158 that are used toprovide closing assist over two different portions of the closing arcA1. In another embodiment, a variable or two stage spring can be used toprovide the same result. These two different portions may coincide witharcs A2 and A3 or they may not. In another embodiment, connecting unit150 a can also include damping capability. Connecting unit 150 bincludes closing assist over at least a portion of closing arc A1 andalso provides damping during opening of the bucket 14. As shown in FIG.29, in a preferred embodiment, spring assist is provided over closingduring bucket travel along A3 and damping while opening over at least A2(and preferably all of A1). Damping can be provided in any known way. Inan exemplary embodiment, damping is provided by fluid 160 disposedwithin a cylinder 162, as shown in FIG. 29. Pneumatic or gas cylinderscan also be used.

As will appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, closing ofthe bucket 14 is most difficult at the beginning of the process (e.g.,A3, as shown in FIG. 24). Therefore, the connecting units 150 preferablyprovide a spring lift assist during at least this portion of the closingprocess.

It will be appreciated that connecting units 150 are provided on bothsides of the bucket 14 and can be connected to the bucket 14 and upperhousing 26 by any connection method or interface and preferably usingbrackets 154 with an opening therethrough or a stud extending therefrom.

In another preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 30, the pivot binassembly 140 can include a powered lift assist connecting unit 150 c,which provides powered lift assist over at least a portion of or theentire closing arc A1. Powered opening/damping can also be provided.Preferably, when powered lift assist is desired, a powered lift assistconnecting unit 150 c is used on one side of the bucket 14 and aconnecting unit 150 with only damping capability is used on the otherside of the bucket 14. In another embodiment, powered lift assistconnecting units 150 c can be used on both sides of the bucket 14. Itwill be appreciated that all of the connecting units 150 a, 150 b and150 c (and any connecting units 150 with only damping capability) areall interchangeable and use the same interface (e.g., brackets 154) toconnect to the bucket 14 and upper housing 26. In an embodiment, thebrackets 154 may have to be moved to accommodate the powered lift assistconnecting unit 150 c as opposed to the other connecting units 150. Itwill be appreciated that the powered lift assist connecting unit 150 cis in electrical communication with the release button 27 of theassociated bucket 14. In another embodiment, a separate button forclosing can be provided.

FIG. 23D shows another embodiment that provides damping of the openingbucket and/or mechanical/spring assistance in closing the bucket 14.FIG. 23D is a cross-section that is taken at the same cut line as FIG.23C in a pivot bin assembly with the embodiment now being described. Asshown, the pivot assembly 142 b includes a rotary damper 17 (asdescribed above), and at least one assist spring 172. In a preferredembodiment, the assist spring 172 is a coil spring that is co-axial withpivot axle 16. In use, at least one end of the spring abuts a stop suchthat when the bucket 14 is opened passed a predetermined point (e.g.,after A2), the spring 172 is preloaded. In the example shown in FIG. 24,spring 172 holds the empty bucket in the intermediate open position.Once a user pulls down or a bag of sufficient weight is placed on thebin, the bucket opens further and spring 172 is preloaded. This providesa user closing the bin with assistance. It will be appreciated that oncethe bucket 14 is loaded, the bucket 14 only moves between the open andclosed positions. In this configuration it bypasses the intermediateopen position as the weight of the luggage overcomes the spring force.

In another embodiment, the assist spring 172 can be a spiral spring orother type of spring. This embodiment can include the same benefits asthose discussed above with respect to the various connecting units 150.For example, coil spring 172 can provide closing assist over a portionof the closing arc or over the entire closing arc or a variable/twostage spring or multiple springs can be used to provide differingamounts of closing force assistance over the closing arc. Furthermore,rotary damper 17 can provide damping during a portion or all of theopening arc. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, thepivot bin assembly 140 includes any of the connecting units 150discussed above and rotary dampers 17 with coil springs 172. Forexample, in this embodiment, closing assist can be provided during oneportion of the closing arc by coil springs 172 and during anotherportion of the closing arc by spring 156 in connecting unit 150.

In summary, the pivot bin assembly 140 can include a) dampingcapability, b) damping capability and closing assist, c) dampingcapability and two or more stage closing assist, or d) dampingcapability and powered lift assist.

FIGS. 31-34 show another arrangement of the clevis assemblies 142 a and142 b together with the cut out 151 in the side 18 b of the upperhousing 26 and the connecting unit 150. In this embodiment, inner plates175 a and 175 b and outer plates 177 a and 177 b and cut outs 151 areshaped differently and connecting units 150 are oriented differently.Also, the pivot axles 16 a and 16 b extend through the lower brackets154. However, this embodiment operates the same as that described above.

Generally, when a two stage opening bucket/bin is in use, when thelatches are released, the damping capability of the pivot bin assembly10 or 140 allows damped opening of the bucket 14 to an angle (theintermediate open position) that provides easy access for most luggage,even when empty. Furthermore, compared to the prior art, in theintermediate open position, the pivot bin assemblies 10 or 140 increasethe headroom in the cabin when the buckets 14 are open and empty (in theintermediate open position). Next, once passenger luggage 11 ispositioned on the lip of the bucket 14 or once a typical bag/luggage isin the bucket 14, the bucket 14 will drop to the open position in acontrolled/damped manner. This allows for placement of all luggagesizes.

With reference to FIGS. 24-27, an example of an operation cycle ofloading and unloading a two stage opening bucket or bin with luggagebefore and after a flight will now be described. As discussed above, allangles, weights, loads, dimensions, times, etc. used herein areexemplary. First, the release button 27 of an empty bucket 14 is pressedby a user. The bucket 14 opens 31° (A2) at a damped rate to theintermediate open position (see the bucket in dashed lines in FIG. 26).The springs (springs 156 in the connector assemblies and/or coil springs172) are now ready to be engaged. The user then places luggage 11 on thelip of the bucket 14 (or pulls down with their hand). The potentialenergy from the luggage 11 lowers the bucket 14 through an additional11° (A3) to the open position, which displaces the springs 156, 158and/or 172 on both sides of the bucket 14 and loads them with enoughenergy to create 13 ft-lbs of torque (for example). The user then slidestheir luggage fully into the bucket 14 (see FIG. 27). To accommodatemore luggage, the users bag is preferably turned so that it rests on aside. In a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 is damped while it islowered.

Assuming other luggage has now been placed in the same bucket 14, inthis scenario, the bucket 14 is now completely filled and the luggageweighs approximately 88 lbs in total. As shown in FIG. 27, a user nowpushes approximately vertically on the closing surface 146 withapproximately 27 lbs of force (see arrow F1). The springs 156 and/or 172apply an assist load of 7 lbs over the first 11° of the bucket 14closing arc (A3). The user then continues pushing the bucket 14 closedthrough the remaining 31° (A2). In the embodiment with a variable springor with a second spring 158, assist can also be provided over some orall of the remainder of the closing arc. As can be seen in FIG. 27, F1is approximately vertical. With the orientation of the bucket 14 shownin this embodiment, the closing surface 146 is configured such that itis parallel or close to parallel with the ground. This prompts a user topress up in the direction of F1, which makes closing the bucket easierthan pushing elsewhere on the bucket or pushing on a surface that is ata steep angle compared to horizontal.

After the flight (or at any time during the flight), to open the bucket14, the user presses the release button 27 and the fully loaded bucket14 opens the full 42° (A1) to the open position at a damped rate. Theuser can then pull their luggage 11 from the fully opened bucket 14.

In an exemplary embodiment, the bucket 14 free falls from the closed toopen position in 2.5±1 seconds while loaded with luggage anywherebetween 0-80 lbs in weight. In the exemplary scenarios given herein thebucket 14 itself weighs approximately 10 lbs. This results in a combinedweight range of 10-90 lbs (but could be higher). In an exemplary closingforce scenario it is desired for the closing force (provided by theuser) not to exceed 27 lbs. In order to achieve this, a closing assistforce of approximately 7 lbs is provided over the first 11° (A3) of thebucket 14 closing motion. This equates to approximately 13 ft-lbs oftorque at the pivot point.

As shown in FIG. 26, the two stage opening bucket also provides for twodifferent orientations for placing standard luggage in the bin interior36. In a preferred embodiment, A2 is dimensioned such that when thebucket 14 is in the intermediate open position, a bag can be placed inthe bucket 14 on its top or bottom, as shown in dashed lines in FIG. 26and A1 is dimensioned such that when the bucket 14 is in the openposition, a bag can be placed in the bucket 14 on its side, as shown insolid lines in FIG. 26. In another example, when the bucket 14 is in theintermediate open position, a user can place their bag on the lip of thebucket 14 on its top or bottom, allow the weight of the bag to open thebin to the open position and then turn the bag on its side and slide itall the way into the bin interior 36. It will be appreciated that thetwo stage opening capability can be applied to other overhead bins,e.g., bins that open by translating or moving downwardly as opposed topivoting open.

FIGS. 35-42 show another embodiment of a pivot bin assembly 200. Likenumerals in FIGS. 35-42 refer to like components in FIGS. 1-34. In anexemplary embodiment, pivot bin assembly 200 can be used on smaller jetsmade by companies like Embraer where aisle space is desirable. However,this is not a limitation on the present invention, and the pivot binassembly 200 can be used where desired.

Generally, the pivot bin assembly 200 includes upper housing 26 thatincludes first and second side panels 18 a and 18 b, and bucket 14pivotally connected to the upper housing 26 by first and second clevisassemblies 142 a and 142 b. FIGS. 35 and 37 show the bucket 14 in theclosed position, but FIG. 37 has the outer plate 177 b of the clevisassembly 142 b omitted to show the components therebehind. FIGS. 36 and38 show the bucket 14 in the open position, but FIG. 38 has the outerplate 177 b of the clevis assembly 142 b omitted to show the componentstherebehind. It will be appreciated from a review of the arrows shown inFIG. 36, that the geometry of the pivotal connection between the bucket14 and the upper housing 26 causes the top edge or lip 14 a of thebucket 14 to be positioned outboard (away from the center aisle) in theopen position compared to when it is in the closed position. Thegeometry that provides the outboard pivoting is also shown in FIG. 38,which shows a vertical line that demonstrates the vertical openingdistance of the bucket 14 between the open and closed positions (labeledO1), a horizontal line extending through the pivot point or pivot axis,and the center point CP of the vertical opening distance O1. As shown,the pivot point horizontal line extended is positioned vertically abovethe center point CP of the vertical opening distance O1.

Also, compare D3 and D4 in FIG. 41, which shows two pivot bin assemblies200 on opposite sides of an aisle. D3 shows the distance between thefront or inboard edges of the buckets 14 in the closed position and D4shows the distance between the front or inboard edges of the buckets 14in the open position. D3 is greater than D4. Described with respect to asingle pivot bin assembly 200, the horizontal distance D5 between avertical line that extends through the pivot point and the front edge ofthe bucket in the closed position is greater than the horizontaldistance D6 between the vertical line that extends through the pivotpoint and the front edge of the bucket in the open position.

As shown in FIG. 37, in a preferred embodiment, the bucket 14 includes acurved raceway or slot 202 defined in the side panel 18 b (and in sidepanel 18 a) that receives the pivot mechanism 16 b and a bushing 178.This provides the ability to disconnect bucket 14 from the upper housing26 with minimal disassembly. In a preferred embodiment, the upperhousing 26 includes an extension member 204 that extends downwardly andinwardly therefrom. When the bucket 14 is in the closed position, theextension member 204, defines an opening space 206 that receives aportion of the bucket 14 when the bucket 14 is pivoted to the openposition, as shown in FIG. 38. The extension member 204 also includes afront edge 204 a that defines a gap G1 with a bottom corner 208 of thebucket 14. In use, gap G1 is sized to prevent users from placing fingersor other objects between the extension member 204 and the bucket 14.This embodiment also shows the parts of the latch assemblies 40 a and 40b reversed compared to the previously described embodiments. As shown inFIGS. 35-40, the second striker portion 44 b is positioned on the topwith the striker 39 a extending downwardly from the bottom edge 19 a ofthe side panel 18 b, and the second hook portion 42 b is positioned onthe bottom and within recess 41 b. The striker 39 a is received in anopening 39 b and the hook in the

As shown in FIGS. 37-38, in a preferred embodiment, gap control isprovided between the upper rear edge of the bucket 14 and the innersurface of the back 12 of the upper housing 26. In use, a gap G2 isprovided and sized to prevent users from placing fingers or otherobjects (luggage, coats, etc.) between the upper rear edge of the bucket14 and the inner surface of the back 12 of the upper housing 26. In apreferred embodiment, the rear portion of the bucket 14 includes a bulgeportion 210. The bulge portion 210 has an outer surface that is shapedto define a circle C1 having the pivot point as its center. The back 12of the upper housing 26 includes an indented portion 211 adjacent to andspaced from the bulge portion 210. The indented portion 211 has an innersurface that is shaped to define a circle C2 having the pivot point asits center. The radius of C2 is larger than the radius of C1. The bulgeportion 210 and the indented portion 211 work together to provide agenerally constant clearance or gap G2 between the upper rear portion ofthe bucket 14 and the inner surface of the upper housing 26. As shown inFIGS. 37-38, the remainder of the rear portion of the bucket is notcurved like the bulge portion 210 and neither is the portion of theupper housing 26 below the indented portion 211.

As shown in FIG. 39, in a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly200 includes seat indicia 222 that specify the portion of the bininterior that is designated for a particular passenger. For example, asshown in FIG. 39, the seat indicia 222 includes 1A and 1B, therebyspecifying that the portion of the bin interior adjacent thereto isdesignated for the passengers seated in seats 1A and 1B, respectively.

In a preferred embodiment, the pivot bin assembly 200 includes a topcloseout member 212 extending upwardly and outwardly from the upperhousing 26. As shown in FIG. 42, when the pivot bin assembly 200 isinstalled in an aircraft, the top closeout member 212 spans the spacebetween upper housing 26 and the ceiling of the aircraft. Preferably,the top closeout member 212 includes a bracket 214 for connection to theceiling. As shown in FIG. 42, in a preferred embodiment, a singleceiling panel 216 extends between the brackets 214 on opposite sides ofthe aisle.

As shown in FIG. 40, in an embodiment where two pivot bin assemblies 200are part of a dual pivot bin assembly, a center side panel 218 isincluded. Preferably, outer plate 177 a is connected to the center sidepanel 218, as depicted by the dashed lines in FIG. 41. Outer plate 177 bof the adjacent pivot bin assembly 200 (the one shown in the closedposition in FIG. 41) is attached to the opposite side of the center sidepanel 218. In another embodiment, the center side panel 218 is the outerplate 177 a and/or 177 b of the clevis. senger. For example, FIG. 40

As shown in FIG. 41, in a preferred embodiment, the clevis assemblyincludes a pivot mechanism or pivot axle 16 b that is comprised of twohalves or protrusions that extend from the inner and out plates 175 band 177 b, that are secured together with a threaded fastener 220 or thelike and are received in a bushing 178, which is received in the slot202 and opening 202 a in the side 24 b of the bucket 14. Thisexplanation applies for clevis assembly 142 a as well. However, this isnot a limitation and the clevis assembly and/or pivot axle can be anydescribed herein.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or pluralnumber may also include the plural or singular number respectively. Theword “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of thefollowing interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, allof the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples:alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements orranges.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments. Any measurements or dimensions described orused herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the presentinvention. Other measurements or dimensions are within the scope of theinvention.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, includingany that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can bemodified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and conceptsof the various references described above to provide yet furtherembodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the abovedescription describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, anddescribes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the aboveappears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details ofthe system may vary considerably in its implementation details, whilestill being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As notedabove, particular terminology used when describing certain features oraspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that theterminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specificcharacteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which thatterminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines suchterms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses notonly the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways ofpracticing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certainclaim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of thedisclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only oneaspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as ameans-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied ina computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35U.S.C. §112, ¶6 will include the words “means for”). Accordingly, theapplicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing theapplication to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects ofthe disclosure.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bucket for use with an aircraft storage bin,the bucket comprising: a bottom and first and second opposing side wallsextending upwardly from the bottom, wherein the first and second sidewalls each include a top edge, wherein the first side wall includes afirst slot that is open to the top edge of the first side wall and isconfigured to receive a first pivot axle therein, and wherein the secondside wall includes a second slot that is open to the top edge of thesecond side wall and is configured to receive a second pivot axletherein.
 2. The bucket of claim 1 wherein the first side wall includes afirst bracket that is received in a first indentation defined in the topedge of the first wall, wherein the first slot is defined in the firstbracket, wherein the second side wall includes a second bracket that isreceived in a second indentation defined in the top edge of the secondwall, wherein the second slot is defined in the second bracket.
 3. Thebucket of claim 2 wherein the first bracket defines an openingtransversely therethrough that is positioned at a distal end of thefirst slot, and wherein the second bracket defines an openingtransversely therethrough that is positioned at a distal end of thesecond slot.
 4. The bucket of claim 3 wherein the first bracket includesat least one connection member extending upwardly therefrom, and whereinthe second bracket includes at least one connection member extendingupwardly therefrom.
 5. The bucket of claim 4 wherein the connectionmembers each include an opening defined transversely therethrough. 6.The bucket of claim 5 wherein the first bracket includes two spacedapart connection members extending upwardly therefrom, and wherein thesecond bracket includes two spaced apart connection members extendingupwardly therefrom.
 7. The bucket of claim 1 further comprising a firsthook portion or a first striker portion secured to the first side wall,and a second hook portion or a second striker portion secured to thesecond side wall.
 8. The bucket of claim 1 further comprising a firsthook portion secured to the first side wall, and a second hook portionsecured to the second side wall.
 9. The bucket of claim 8 wherein thehook portion includes a housing having an opening therein that facesupwardly and is configured to receive a striker.
 10. An aircraft storagebin comprising: an upper housing, and a bucket pivotally connected tothe upper housing that cooperates with the upper housing to define a bininterior, wherein the bucket includes a bottom and first and secondopposing side walls extending upwardly from the bottom, wherein thefirst and second side walls each include a top edge, wherein the firstside wall includes a first slot that is open to the top edge of thefirst side wall and receives a first pivot axle therein, and wherein thesecond side wall includes a second slot that is open to the top edge ofthe second side wall and receives a second pivot axle therein, whereinthe bucket pivots about a pivot axis with respect to the upper housingbetween an open position and a closed position.
 11. The aircraft storagebin of claim 10 wherein the first side wall of the bucket includes afirst bracket that is received in a first indentation defined in the topedge of the first wall, wherein the first slot is defined in the firstbracket, wherein the second side wall of the bucket includes a secondbracket that is received in a second indentation defined in the top edgeof the second wall, wherein the second slot is defined in the secondbracket.
 12. The aircraft storage bin of claim 2 wherein the firstbracket defines a first opening transversely therethrough that ispositioned at a distal end of the first slot, wherein the first pivotaxle extends through the first opening, wherein the second bracketdefines an opening transversely therethrough that is positioned at adistal end of the second slot, and wherein the second pivot axle extendsthrough the second opening.
 13. The aircraft storage bin of claim 12wherein the first bracket includes at least one connection memberextending upwardly therefrom, and wherein the second bracket includes atleast one connection member extending upwardly therefrom.
 14. Theaircraft storage bin of claim 13 wherein a first connecting unit extendsbetween the connection member of the first bracket and the first sidepanel of the upper housing, and wherein a second connecting unit extendsbetween the connection member of the second bracket and the second sidepanel of the upper housing.
 15. The aircraft storage bin of claim 14wherein the first bracket includes two spaced apart connection membersextending upwardly therefrom, wherein an end of the first connectingunit is secured between the two connection members, wherein the secondbracket includes two spaced apart connection members extending upwardlytherefrom, and wherein an end of the second connecting unit is securedbetween the two connection members.
 16. The aircraft storage bin ofclaim 1 further comprising a first latch assembly that includes firstand second hook portions and first and second striker portions, whereinone of the first hook portion and the first striker portion extendsdownwardly from a bottom edge of the first side panel or upwardly fromthe first side wall of the bucket, and the other of the first hookportion and the first striker portion is positioned in a first recessdefined in the first side wall of the bucket or the first side panel,and wherein the second latch assembly includes a second hook portion anda second striker portion, wherein one of the second hook portion and thesecond striker portion extends downwardly from a bottom edge of thefirst side panel or upwardly from the second side wall of the bucket andthe other of the second hook portion and the second striker portion ispositioned in a second recess defined in the first side wall of thebucket or the first side panel.